Find your place behind the chair.
Work with us. Grow with us.
Whether you're just getting started or ready for your next chapter, we're here to support your journey.
Employee Stylist
What We Stand For
The heart of Gypsy & Oak Salon
Our Vision
To establish a new standard for hybrid salon culture by creating sustainable careers, personalized support, meaningful connection, and an exceptional guest experience.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a welcoming, approachable salon where guests gain confidence through personalized artistry, ongoing education, and genuine connection, while stylists receive intentional mentorship, support, and opportunities to build careers that align with their goals.
Every experience is designed to feel personal, effortless, and worth coming back for.
At Gypsy & Oak, we believe there's a better way to build a salon. We've created multiple career paths because we know success looks different for everyone. Whether you're joining Gypsy & Oak as an established independent stylist, looking for the support of employment, or beginning your journey through our assistant program, every path is intentionally designed with opportunities for growth.
While each path looks different, you'll be part of a collaborative salon where people genuinely support one another, celebrate each other's wins, and work together to create an exceptional experience for every guest.
Our employee and assistant programs provide structured mentorship, education, and opportunities to build a thriving clientele, while our independent stylists enjoy the freedom to run their own business within a professional, connected salon community. No matter your path, our goal is the same: to help you build a sustainable, fulfilling career that aligns with your goals.
Our Culture
Our Core Values
Growth Minded- We never stop learning, improving, and investing in ourselves so we can better serve our guests, teammates, and careers.
Collaborative Success- We believe everyone contributes to the success of the salon. We willingly support one another, share knowledge, step in when help is needed, and create an environment where every guest and teammate feel cared for.
Accountability- We take ownership of our actions, communicate openly, and follow through on our commitments.
Quality- We believe every detail matters. From our craftsmanship to the guest experience, we take pride in thoughtful work, consistent results, and doing things well.
A peak inside Gypsy & Oak
Who We’re Looking For~
Finding the right fit matters. At Gypsy & Oak, we’re not just looking for talent—we’re looking for heart. Here’s what makes a great addition to our team:
Thrives in a collaborative, team-first environment.
Has a growth mindset and is always open to learning.
Takes ownership of their growth, actions, and commitments.
Communicates clearly, kindly, and respectfully.
Is honest, dependable, and follows through.
Takes pride in creating exceptional experiences for every guest.
Values balance, professionalism, and healthy boundaries.
Is excited to support others and be supported in return.
Choose Your Career Path
Assistant Stylist
Our Assistant Program is a 9–12 month paid mentorship designed to build your skills, confidence, and business foundation for a thriving career behind the chair.
You’ll work 1–2 days a week alongside Megan and the Gypsy & Oak team, observing every part of the guest experience—from consultations and color application to finishing and client care. Your hands-on responsibilities will include toning, styling, shampooing, mixing and applying color, and keeping the salon polished and welcoming.
As your skills grow, you’ll gradually begin seeing your own guests 1–3 days a week while continuing to receive support in refining your techniques and strengthening your business strategy.
Upon completing the program, you’ll have the opportunity to continue at Gypsy & Oak as either an hourly stylist or transition into booth rental—whatever aligns best with your goals and growth.
Starting rate: $17/hr + tips
Rental Stylist
At Gypsy & Oak, we believe booth rental should feel supported—not solo. We offer more than just a beautiful space—we offer a community of growth-minded stylists and the kind of daily support that makes running your business feel sustainable and rewarding.
As a rental stylist, you’ll have access to flexible scheduling, intentional amenities, and the resources and mentorship that help you grow your business with clarity and confidence.
Our rental package includes:
Commission on retail sales, with branded retail bags and shelf talkers
Salon-wide marketing support through website and social features, SEO, Google Business, client referrals, professional content opportunities, and salon email campaigns
Optional business mentorship and pricing guidance
Use of full backbar (Davines and Goldie Locks)
Ample locked storage for personal supplies
Beverage station, snacks, and thoughtful client comforts
We offer flexible 2-, 3-, or 4-day weekly rental options or exclusive 6-day access option for stylists looking for more flexibility.
At Gypsy & Oak, you’ll have the freedom to run your business independently—without sacrificing the connection, community, or support that makes salon life so fulfilling.
Love Notes from the Team
Our Interview & Onboarding Journey:
-
Fill Out Application
Tell us about yourself, your experience, and what you're looking for in your next salon home. We want to learn about you and what kind of support you need.
-
Phone Chat
We’ll schedule a quick phone conversation to learn more about each other, answer initial questions and see if our goals align.
-
In Person Interview
Join us for a salon tour and relaxed interview over coffee. We’ll get to know each other and explore what working at Gypsy & Oak could look like for you.
-
Shadow Day
Come spend a few hours with us! You’ll either observe the team or work on a client to get a real sense of how the salon flows and what it’s like to be part of the team.
-
Welcome Aboard
If it’s a mutual match, we’ll extend an offer and walk you through the onboarding process. From there, we’ll set you up with everything you need to start strong.
Perks & Amenities
At Gypsy & Oak, we’ve created a space that’s as supportive for stylists as it is inviting for guests. From growth-minded support to curated amenities that elevate the client experience, every detail is intentionally chosen to help you thrive—personally and professionally.
Whether you're just starting out or already established, we’re here to support your journey behind the chair.
Explore the categories to see what we offer and how we make each day in the salon a little more elevated.
-
Annual professional photoshoot with downloadable images for marketing and social media
Ongoing mentorship and business guidance—whether you're building a foundation or growing an established clientele
Retail commission to increase income, guest retention and encourage product education
Curated salon website and social media presence to help attract and refer new clients to our team
-
Flexible scheduling options to support your lifestyle—choose a 2-, 3-, or 4-day schedule, or exclusive 6-day access (Monday–Saturday)
A supportive, team-centered culture that encourages individuality and long-term growth
High stylist retention and a stable, uplifting environment
For rental stylists: enjoy the freedom to set your own schedule and pricing
For assistants: ease into your career with mentorship, a steady rhythm, and space to grow at your own pace
-
Beautifully designed and branded salon website to attract new guests and showcase our team
20+ leads per week from our Stylist Match Quiz and our marketing funnel
A trusted reputation in the community, with an average 4.8-star rating on Google and Yelp, with 170+ combined reviews
Branded retail bags provided for a polished, professional retail experience
Assistants benefit from a well-established brand presence while building confidence and visibility
Rental stylists are supported in growing their personal brand while also benefiting from salon-wide marketing, client referrals, and our established reputation.
-
A collaborative team spirit—stylists support each other and share knowledge openly
A dedicated leadership style that protects the energy, professionalism, and guest experience of the salon
A safe, inclusive space where all are welcome—regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity
Assistants are guided with care and mentorship, while rental stylists enjoy community without competition
-
Cozy, boutique salon just 2 miles south of downtown San Luis Obispo
Large parking lot with free parking for stylists and guests
Bright, open layout with natural light and a clean, clutter-free atmosphere
Private break room & color room with fridge, microwave, sink, stylist storage, and sitting area
Full-service stylist stations with chairs, mirrors, fatigue mats, styling trays, and personal storage
Access to backbar products and station essentials featuring Davines and Goldie Locks
Shared-use tools provided: tint brushes, bowls, bottles, and whisks
Towels, client robes, and capes provided, with on-site laundry
Wi-Fi available for both stylist use and guest convenience
Sonos professional speaker system with Pandora subscription
Client amenities include: beverage station, snacks, hot towel warmer, throw blankets, phone chargers, and a portable back massager
Bi-monthly professional cleaning to maintain a polished, welcoming space
At Gypsy & Oak, we do things differently.
We believe in strategic growth over hustle culture, and that success doesn’t require burnout.
Our values shape everything—from how we lead, to how we collaborate, and how we serve both our clients and each other.
-
We never stop learning, improving, and investing in ourselves so we can better serve our guests, teammates, and careers.
We demonstrate it by:
Seeking and receiving feedback with an open mind.
Pursuing education and new skills.
Staying curious and embracing change.
Taking ownership of our personal and professional growth.
-
We believe everyone contributes to the success of the salon. We willingly support one another, share knowledge, step in when help is needed, and create an environment where every guest and teammate feel cared for.
We demonstrate it by:
Greeting every guest who walks through our doors.
Offering help before being asked.
Sharing knowledge, ideas, and encouragement.
Pitching in with shared responsibilities to keep the salon running smoothly.
Celebrating each other's successes because we all grow together.
-
We take ownership of our actions, communicate openly, and follow through on our commitments.
We demonstrate it by:
Doing what we say we'll do.
Respecting our guests' and teammates' time by arriving prepared and
communicating proactively.
Following salon procedures and standards.
Owning mistakes, learning from them, and making them right.
Taking initiative instead of waiting to be asked.
-
We believe every detail matters. From our craftsmanship to the guest experience, we take pride in thoughtful work, consistent results, and doing things well.
We demonstrate it by:
Paying attention to the details.
Showing up with professionalism and intention.
Delivering consistent, high-quality work.
Creating a welcoming, elevated experience for every guest.
Looking for ways to go above and beyond.
Learn more about our Core Values
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s start the conversation. Fill out the form below so we can get to know you and see if Gypsy & Oak feels like home
Thanks for stopping by; I look forward to connecting with you!
-Megan Vaughn, Owner

